Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh has signed an eight-year contract extension, securing his future with the club until the end of 2034. This agreement is the longest in Carlton's history. The signing was announced amidst a period of early-season trade and free agency speculation involving players from multiple clubs across the league.
Carlton Secures Sam Walsh
The contract extension for the 25-year-old Walsh removes him from the 2026 AFL free agency pool. Walsh stated that his recent injury history was not a topic during negotiations. He expressed confidence in his revised training regimen, which he described as his first uninterrupted summer in five years, and anticipates maintaining a high level of performance as the contract progresses.
“The contract period wasn’t about my injuries; it was about my belief in this team and this club,” Walsh said of the historic deal.
Carlton's list boss, Nick Austin, commented on the signing, highlighting Walsh's embodiment of the club's values, including elite standards and leadership. Walsh serves as co-vice captain alongside Jacob Weitering.
Other Carlton players secured on long-term contracts include Adam Cerra and Harry McKay (both until 2030), Jacob Weitering (2031), and recent recruits Ollie Florent and Will Hayward (both 2030).
Player Movement and Free Agency Speculation
Zac Bailey (Brisbane Lions): The unrestricted free agent is reportedly in contract discussions. Brisbane co-captain Harris Andrews expressed confidence in retaining the forward. Bailey has been linked to a potential six-year deal with estimated earnings of over $1.2 million annually. His manager confirmed that negotiations are ongoing.
Zak Butters (Port Adelaide): While Melbourne coach Steven King stated his club is likely not a frontrunner for Butters' free agency decision, other clubs, including the Western Bulldogs and Geelong, are considered leading contenders. Port Adelaide indicated they would not trade Butters last year.
Ben King (Gold Coast Suns): Media reports indicate King is likely to sign a two-year extension with the Suns. Collingwood has reportedly moved on from pursuing him.
Joel Amartey (Sydney Swans): Carlton has expressed interest in the unrestricted free agent forward. Reports indicate Amartey and the Swans are "very far apart" on a new contract.
Mitch Lewis (Hawthorn): Hawthorn has tabled a four-year offer to the unrestricted free agent. He is reported to be keen to stay with the club, amid interest from Collingwood.
Buku Khamis (Western Bulldogs): Considered a highly attractive prospect for other clubs due to his form and versatility, the Western Bulldogs would need to accommodate him financially to retain his services.
Other Players:
- Lachie Neale (Brisbane Lions): Analysts suggest Neale is inclined to remain with Brisbane, but family considerations are a factor. The decision is expected to unfold during the season.
- Bayley Fritsch (Melbourne): Reportedly in a stable situation, with his future potentially depending on Melbourne's performance.
- Jordan Butts (Adelaide Crows): Has attracted interest from multiple clubs.
- Kieran Briggs (GWS Giants): Anticipated to stay with his club.
- Nate Caddy (Essendon): A reporter from CODE Sports stated he believes Caddy is not considering a trade. Caddy is contracted until 2028.
- Zach Merrett and Jordan Ridley (Essendon): A reporter predicted both players will explore trades. The club president expects Merrett to stay. Ridley is reported to be keen to move to Queensland.
- Jed Walter (Gold Coast Suns): Out of contract and has reportedly been met with by Essendon.
- Logan Morris (Brisbane Lions) and Matt Rowell (Gold Coast Suns): Both are players under contract until 2027 with emerging future speculation.
Coaching and Other Club News
- Alastair Clarkson (North Melbourne): The club is not planning to offer head coach Alastair Clarkson a contract extension before his current deal expires. The club is content to assess his performance before making a decision.
- Mabior Chol (Hawthorn): The AFL, Hawthorn, and the AFL Players Association condemned racist abuse the forward reported receiving via social media after a match.
Brownlow Medal Voting Process Changes
The Brownlow Medal voting process will allow senior umpires to reconsider their initial judgments to reduce errors. Identical changes will also be implemented for the AFLW best and fairest award.